Big guard Elyjah Freeman, an NCAA Division II player, joins the Tigers
Elyjah Freeman: From Division II Dominance to Power Conference Spotlight
Elyjah Freeman, a 6-foot-8 guard from Lincoln Memorial University (LMU), has emerged as one of the most compelling stories in college basketball’s transfer portal. After a standout freshman season in NCAA Division II, Freeman is set to make the leap to a Power Five conference, committing to the Auburn Tigers for the 2025–26 season.
Early Life and High School Journey
Born and raised in Palm Beach, Florida, Freeman attended Wellington High School, where he garnered attention as a McDonald’s All-American nominee during his senior year. Despite his accolades, Freeman faced challenges in the recruiting process, receiving limited interest from major Division I programs. This led him to choose Lincoln Memorial University, a Division II school in Tennessee, where he could develop his skills and showcase his talents.
Breakout Freshman Season at Lincoln Memorial
In his inaugural season with the Railsplitters, Freeman quickly established himself as a dominant force in the South Atlantic Conference (SAC). He averaged 18.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, shooting an impressive 58.7% from the field, 45.6% from three-point range, and 80.7% from the free-throw line . His performance earned him multiple Player of the Week honors, including national recognition from the NABC and NACDA.
Freeman’s most notable achievements came in January 2025, when he scored back-to-back 35-point games against Carson-Newman and Coker, showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility. These performances not only highlighted his offensive skills but also his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
National Recognition and Transfer Interest
Freeman’s exceptional freshman campaign did not go unnoticed. He was named to the Bevo Francis Top 50 Award Watch List, an honor reserved for the top players in small college basketball . His inclusion on this list underscored his status as one of the premier talents in Division II basketball.
As the season progressed, Freeman’s performances attracted the attention of several high-profile Division I programs. The Kentucky Wildcats, under new head coach Mark Pope, expressed interest in Freeman, recognizing his potential to contribute immediately at the Power Five level . Additionally, the Indiana Hoosiers evaluated Freeman as a potential transfer target, impressed by his scoring ability and efficiency
Commitment to Auburn
After careful consideration, Freeman chose to continue his collegiate career at Auburn University, committing to the Tigers for the 2025–26 season. His decision to join Auburn was influenced by the program’s competitive environment and the opportunity to develop under the guidance of head coach Bruce Pearl. Freeman’s commitment adds depth and talent to an already promising Auburn roster, as the team looks to build on its recent successes in the Southeastern Conference.
Playing Style and Future Outlook
Freeman is known for his versatility on the court. Standing at 6-foot-8, he possesses the size to compete in the post and the agility to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. His ability to drive to the basket, combined with his shooting touch, makes him a dual-threat offensive player. Defensively, Freeman’s length and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions, contributing to his team’s overall defensive schemes.
At Auburn, Freeman is expected to play a significant role, potentially as a starting wing or forward. His addition to the Tigers’ lineup provides a dynamic scoring option and a versatile defender, enhancing the team’s depth and competitiveness in the SEC.
Elyjah Freeman’s journey from a Division II standout to a Power Five transfer is a testament to his hard work, talent, and determination. As he transitions to Auburn, Freeman brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His arrival in the SEC is eagerly anticipated, and many are excited to see how his skills will translate to the next level. With his combination of size, skill, and athleticism, Freeman is poised to make a significant impact at Auburn and in the broader landscape of college basketball.
